February

SHU Renovates the Edgerton Center for the Performing Arts

News Story: February 22, 2013

Demonstrating its commitment to Theater, Performing Arts and Art & Design, Sacred Heart University is currently renovating the Edgerton Center for the Performing Arts. Exciting upgrades to the 776-seat facility will be completed later this year. The expansion to the Edgerton Center follows major interior improvements made to the acoustics and HVAC system about five years ago.

The expansion includes the addition of a large Art & Design Gallery for student and faculty artwork that will double as a reception area and a venue where people can gather prior to and following performances. Creating a feeling of openness and natural light, the art gallery/reception area will be walled with panels of glass and windows.

The additions also include an outdoor facility that will provide another warm gathering place for events and campus activities. A large media screen and benches will allow for outdoor movies and other programs.

“The renovations will enhance the performing and fine arts at Sacred Heart University a great deal and is something that we have hoped to do for some time,” said Michael Kinney, senior vice president for Finance and Administration. “Not only will it make the Edgerton Center a destination for the Sacred Heart community, but it will serve as a valuable venue for the greater Fairfield and Bridgeport community.”

“The renovations are part of the strategic plan at Sacred Heart University and will support expansion of the performing arts program,” said David L. Coppola, Ph.D., vice president for Strategic Planning and Administration. Sacred Heart offers an undergraduate major in Art & Design, minor programs in both performing arts and music and a master’s in communication.

“Upgrading the space and facilities will allow these programs to flourish, and it’s an opportunity for community building,” Coppola added.

Sacred Heart’s theater arts program has seen scores of performers from homegrown talent such as John Ratzenberger, who played lovable mailman Cliff Clavin on the Emmy-award winning sitcom Cheers, to former Saturday Night Live cast member Kevin Nealon.